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Frozen Vegetable Medley Recipe: Easy Garlic Butter Side Dish

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This quick and comforting frozen vegetable medley is sautΓ©ed in garlic butter for a vibrant, flavorful side dish. Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or holiday feasts.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups frozen vegetable medley (carrots, peas, corn, green beans, or California blend)
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 large garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, or to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
  • Optional: 2 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese
  • Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • Optional: 1 tablespoon olive oil (to replace or supplement butter)

Instructions

  1. Mince the garlic and chop the parsley. Measure out the frozen vegetable medley and butter.
  2. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add butter and let it melt until bubbly but not browned (about 1 minute).
  3. Add minced garlic to the melted butter and cook, stirring constantly, for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Pour in the frozen vegetable medley and stir to coat with garlic butter. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 6-8 minutes until veggies are hot and starting to brown in spots.
  5. Season with salt and black pepper. Stir well.
  6. Check doneness: veggies should be tender but not mushy, with bright colors and a slight sheen.
  7. Drizzle lemon juice over the veggies and add chopped parsley. Stir to combine and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
  8. Optional: Add parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes, or a dash of olive oil for extra flavor.
  9. Remove from heat and serve hot, garnished with extra parsley if desired.

Notes

Do not thaw frozen vegetables before cooking to avoid sogginess. For dairy-free, use vegan butter or olive oil. Add parmesan, smoked paprika, or fresh herbs for variations. Cook in batches if your pan is small to ensure crispness. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Nutrition

Keywords: frozen vegetable medley, garlic butter vegetables, easy side dish, quick vegetable recipe, vegetarian, gluten-free, weeknight dinner, healthy vegetables, skillet vegetables